I remember watching Miss America as a little girl. I will tell you right now that when I was little, I had a bowl haircut and wanted to grow up to be a cat. The only thing I had in common with the women on that stage was the sparkle in my eye.

I saw the Miss Boise crown and sash for the first time when I was about 11 or 12. It was then that I realized not only did someone in my home town have the capability of achieving the dream that I held so closely- but that I COULD. Since that moment, I wanted to hold the title of Miss Boise.

This year I achieved that goal. I am MISS BOISE. However, reflecting on my personal growth through my participation in this organization gives me just as much joy as holding the title itself. I now have the chance and accept the responsibility to inspire another little girl to be more than just a cat. Now I am on the path to becoming a broadcast journalist with more drive and integrity than I ever could have imagined. That is in part the result of the inspiration of one woman- Amber Armstrong.

Mrs. Armstrong (pictured above), was Miss Boise 1986. On February 26, 2016 she and I met for coffee and talked about her experiences in the program and how influential it was for her as well. I am so honored to be a part of a sisterhood like the Miss Boise title holders! I will forever be grateful that she showed me her crown so many years ago.

This experience is a great example of why I will always value the power of one. ONE person can completely change the course of another person’s life. ONE smile can make a thousand more. ONE kindness can turn someone’s bad day, to a good one. This is what my platform, “Be Limitless” encompasses. I want to, through every outlet possible, spread the message that YOU are a powerful force. You know what they say… “with great power comes great responsibility”. Life can be busy and life can be hard- but you are responsible to yourself and those around you to actively pursue the things that you are passionate about, especially in terms of contributing to the betterment of your community. If you could Be Limitless, what would you accomplish?